Nordstrom Rack + Lily The Wandering Gypsy

A little while back, I collaborated with Nordstrom Rack! They have some pretty wonderful items, for a fraction of the price you would normally find at Nordstrom. I got to choose from hundreds of items, within certain brands, and I chose all sorts of lovely accessories. 

Nordstrom Rack + Lily The Wandering Gypsy

This Mint Tote from Nine West (The It Girl Tote) is really beautiful. I love the size of it and used it for a long time, right until it got too chilly to be wearing as bright of a purse. The little laser cut flowers show off a bronze metallic layer underneath, I love how it shines! 

Nordstrom Rack + Lily The Wandering Gypsy

Also, these Sam Edelman Studded Sandals are very cute! They make an outfit look a lot dressier then other sandals. They are a little bit tight in the toes, though, so I would recommend getting a half size larger than normal. 

Next, the J. Simpson Camellia Stud Satchel, below, and the Lucky Brand Alixis Flats were cute as well. I thought that styling them with these ripped up and distressed jeans was great! I normally would prefer a darker colored purse, but if you do like lighter colors, this one may be for you. The Lucky Brand Flats have this cute little bow at the back, and the back was even stretchy, making them more comfortable. With these shoes, I would recommend even going a half size smaller or just right at your average size, so that they don't slide off your feet. These could really be dressed up quite a bit! 

Nordstrom Rack + Lily The Wandering Gypsy

 I also chose this black, Nine West Angular Zipper Satchel and the Kate Spade New York Cooper Pyramid Stud Leather Strap Watch. The watch was my absolute favorite item of all. Extremely comfortable, and I also love the colors! The purse was extremely sturdy, and only had hand held handles, so if you prefer a more structured purse, you might like this one. 

Nordstrom Rack + Lily The Wandering Gypsy

Love this watch!! Kate Spade really knows what's up :)

e.l.f. Cosmetics #PlayBeautifully

I have used e.l.f. cosmetics for a long time, I love their price point, and the packaging is always so attractive! So, I wanted to share a few of their newest goodies from e.l.f. to inspire you to #PlayBeautifully! I also encourage you to check out @elfcosmetics on Instagram to see what they are up to! 

Lily The Wandering Gypsy + e.l.f. Cosmetics

So, the makeup pictured is as follows (all products from e.l.f.). I absolutely LOVE the Moisturizing Lipstick. The shade is also incredibly versatile, and has a very natural look to it. It was definitely moisturizing, which is hard to find most of the time. I think I will be picking up as many of these lipsticks as I can hold in my little hands next time I go to Target :) 

Moisturizing Lipstick in Marsala Blush ($3), Kiss It Goodbye Lip Color Remover ($3), Prism Eyeshadow in Sunset ($10), Precision Liquid Eyeliner ($3), On The Spot Blotting Papers ($5), and the Illuminating Palette ($6).  

I'm loving this moisturizing lipstick from e.l.f. in Marsala Blush. 

I'm loving this moisturizing lipstick from e.l.f. in Marsala Blush. 

Lily The Wandering Gypsy + e.l.f. Cosmetics

Find e.l.f. around the web - Instagram - Facebook - Pinterest - YouTube - Google+

A Gift Guide For Her - In Black And White

I have to say, black is the most versatile and universally worn color, in my opinion. If you are looking for something to get that special gal in your life, here are a few ideas for you! Click on the items to shop!

Image Map

Happy Holidays! 

And, here is an image you can pin! Click through on the above image, or pin the below one. Thanks!!

Black and White Gift Guide For Her

4 DIY Christmas Gift Tutorials - By Lily The Wandering Gypsy

Check out my Pinterest Board here - https://www.pinterest.com/happysolez/a-hankering-to-be-making-this/

This DIY Planner is one of my most popular blog posts! Check out how easy it would be to make one, and give as a gift. 

This DIY Planner is one of my most popular blog posts! Check out how easy it would be to make one, and give as a gift. 

Also, check out my pin board, A Hankering To Be Making This for TONS of ideas! 

Also, check out my pin board, A Hankering To Be Making This for TONS of ideas! 

These amazing No-Bake Cheesecakes are made with animal crackers instead of traditional graham crackers. These would make amazing gifts for the holidays, since they are individually packaged. 

These amazing No-Bake Cheesecakes are made with animal crackers instead of traditional graham crackers. These would make amazing gifts for the holidays, since they are individually packaged. 

All you need is 3 materials for these super easy, Tassel Earrings, and they make a thoughtful gift.

All you need is 3 materials for these super easy, Tassel Earrings, and they make a thoughtful gift.

These Glitzy Tree Earrings are also a cute and festive gift idea you could make for a friend, and then make yourself a matching pair! These turned out really great! 

These Glitzy Tree Earrings are also a cute and festive gift idea you could make for a friend, and then make yourself a matching pair! These turned out really great! 

Pinterest  //  Facebook  //  Instagram  //  She's So Chic Blog  //  Twitter  //  Polyvore

Fall Favorites with Toad&Co

A little while back I visited a pumpkin patch and chose the most perfect pumpkin ever! I wanted to stop at Rendleman Orchards so many times, and was so happy I finally did! The season is about over mid-November, but during the summer and fall, you can visit their adorable shop, The Farmer's Market, and get apple cider donuts, amazing apple cider, all sorts of other food and gift items, and more. If you are looking for the best pumpkins in southern Illinois, look no further! You can pick your own, or choose one they have all ready for you at the shop. 

Toad & Co. + Lily The Wandering Gypsy

The best part about this day was the fact that I got to sport some Toad&Co clothing!  I have loved Toad&Co ever since they had a totally different name (Horny Toad). I found a pair of their shorts at some cool shop on one of our travels, and as soon as we got back home I ordered two more pairs. I have such a hard time finding shorts and pants that fit me properly, that aren't super short, but aren't unflatteringly long. Toad&Co came through for me, and I love them for it. 

Toad & Co. + Lily The Wandering Gypsy

One of the items I am wearing here, is the Women's Printed Lean Leggings in Falcon Brown Print. These leggings have not pilled yet, which is amazing. Make sure to get your size, rather than sizing up. I am kind of curvy, so I ordered one size larger than I thought. These have a very forgiving fit, so just make sure you go with your normal size. The material is beautiful, I love the different shades of brown together, and the print is cute. They're very versatile! 

The shirt I am wearing is the Intermezzo Pullover, in Tyrian Purple. It has two pockets on the front, which I love, and a secret pocket that has a hidden zipper to keep small items like cash, cards, or a house key. This would be a great go-to shirt for a million different reasons. It's warm, but breathable, which is a must for me. 

Toad & Co. + Lily The Wandering Gypsy

I reached out to them a little while ago, to let them know how wonderful their items are, and they graciously sent me some things to review. I was extremely happy when the package arrived at my door. These clothes fit extremely well, and wow, are they well-made! No pilling at all, and I have been wearing them pretty regularly.

Toad & Co. + Lily The Wandering Gypsy

Cabbie even helped me out, modeling for this project :) She really doesn't like the camera at all. We point the thing at her, and she looks away, or even just plain gets up and leaves. This day, I think she really had a lot of fun at the pumpkin patch, so she humored me for just a few photos.  

Toad & Co. + Lily The Wandering Gypsy
Toad & Co. + Lily The Wandering Gypsy
Toad & Co. + Lily The Wandering Gypsy
Toad & Co. + Lily The Wandering Gypsy
Toad & Co. + Lily The Wandering Gypsy

I just love these clothes! They were perfect for a day out, picking pumpkins. 

Toad & Co. + Lily The Wandering Gypsy
Toad & Co. + Lily The Wandering Gypsy

These leggings are great, super comfy and NOT see-through like some out there! I have worn them with my taller boots a lot, too, and they are so cute. 

Toad & Co. + Lily The Wandering Gypsy
Toad & Co. + Lily The Wandering Gypsy

Have you ever worn anything by Toad&Co? If so, comment below and let me know what you have! 

Toad & Co. + Lily The Wandering Gypsy

Be sure to check out the Intermezzo Pullover, and the Women's Printed Lean Leggings. They go together so well, it's an outfit match made in Heaven! A special thanks to Toad&Co. for being so awesome! 

And, look for another upcoming post where I feature a few more of their items, soon! 

CHECK OUT TOAD&CO

Website - Facebook - Instagram - Pinterest

Erin Pelicano Necklaces

Looking for an incredible gift that is not only thoughtful, but really well made? Here are some ideas for you! Erin Pelicano has designed some amazing pieces for the women in your life. 

Erin Pelicano + Lily The Wandering Gypsy

Erin reached out to me to help showcase her work. In these photos, I wanted to convey just how beautiful the necklaces are, and how wonderful they would be for a Christmas or holiday gift. 

Erin Pelicano + Lily The Wandering Gypsy

All of Erin's jewelry arrives in a beautiful gift box, with her signature on it in silver. Her whole presentation is spot on! You could probably tie a ribbon around the box and consider it wrapped. 

Erin Pelicano + Lily The Wandering Gypsy

Be sure to check out even more wonderful updates from Erin around social media!

Facebook - Pinterest - Twitter - Instagram - Google+

Erin Pelicano + Lily The Wandering Gypsy
Erin Pelicano + Lily The Wandering Gypsy
Erin Pelicano + Lily The Wandering Gypsy
Erin Pelicano + Lily The Wandering Gypsy
Erin Pelicano + Lily The Wandering Gypsy

This one, below, I'm going to have to gift to myself, I think :) I absolutely love it! 

Erin Pelicano + Lily The Wandering Gypsy
Erin Pelicano + Lily The Wandering Gypsy
Erin Pelicano + Lily The Wandering Gypsy
Erin Pelicano + Lily The Wandering Gypsy
Erin Pelicano + Lily The Wandering Gypsy
Erin Pelicano + Lily The Wandering Gypsy

These necklaces are going to make some incredible Christmas presents!!! Check out her website HERE.

7 Can Soup Recipe

Here is a super easy soup recipe, and requires 7 cans of soup and tomatoes, and a few other ingredients. It tastes amazing! 

7 Can Soup Recipe - SO good!!!

INGREDIENTS

- 2 - 28 oz. cans of diced tomatoes

- 1 - 15 oz. can black beans

- 1 - 15 oz. can pinto beans

- 1 - 15 oz. can garbanzo beans (I used half the can in this recipe)

- 1 - 15 oz. can corn

- 1 - 15 oz. can sweet peas

- 1 or 2 - 32 oz. containers of beef broth - depends on how much broth you like in your soup.

- 1/2 Lb. bacon

- 1 medium yellow onion

1 Lb. ground beef

- 3 Tablespoons olive oil, salt and seasoning to taste.

- sour cream and finely shredded cheese to top soup.  

INSTRUCTIONS

1.) In a large soup pot, begin to heat oil. Add chopped onions, bacon, ground beef, and salt/seasoning. Open and drain cans EXCEPT FOR TOMATOES - while you are waiting. Stir often. 

2.) Once beef has browned, add in all 7 cans, and broth, and stir. everything together and add more seasoning. Taste as you go! 

3.) Let simmer for about 30 minutes, and you're ready to serve! The house smelled amazing because of this soup! 

4.) Serve with a dollop of sour cream and freshly grated parmesan cheese. Crackers would also be good! 

7 Can Soup Recipe

Happy Veteran's Day!

I wanted to share a super quick and easy recipe to add to your Veteran's Day fun! You may already have these two simple ingredients at home, so let's get started! 

Patriotic Pop Corn

INGREDIENTS

- One Bag of Lightly Salted Pop Corn - I used something like this. *Do not use white cheddar, it won't taste as good* - You can also quickly pop some at home if you prefer! 

- One Bag Each of Blue and Red Candy Melts (pictured below). 

That's it. Here are some blue candy melts, below.

OTHER SUPPLIES

Two medium sized microwave-safe dishes, and two heat-safe spatulas (one for red, one for blue).

Patriotic Pop Corn Recipe

INSTRUCTIONS

1.) Decide how much popcorn you want to use. You will need 8 candy melts per 1 cup of popcorn. The red ones coated the popcorn a bit more intensely than the blue ones did. 

2.) Melt the candy melts in the microwave at half power for 1 minute and stir. Melt again for 30 second intervals until you are satisfied with the texture. If you don't wish to use a microwave, a stovetop double-boiler method is best. Be very careful, candy will be HOT!!! Let candy sit for a few minutes to cool. Here is more info on melting the candy melts.

3. In each bowl, put desired amount of popcorn. Carefully drizzle the candy melts over top of the popcorn and stir each color with a large spatula.

4. Let popcorn mixtures cool separately for about an hour, until candied popcorn has hardened and cooled to room temperature. Mix the blue and red popcorn together in a fresh serving bowl. Serve and enjoy. 

Patriotic Pop Corn

Sugar and Spice - Yummy Creations By Cold Stone Creamery

Don't think Fall is the time to eat ice cream? Well, it is! I recently visited Cold Stone Creamery, in order to help showcase some of the most amazing ice cream I have ever eaten! There was just a small hint of spice that was very well balanced in these treats. And, if you love frozen coffee drinks, there is even a Sugar and Spice creation for you! Make sure to stop by the Springfield, IL location, the general manager was incredibly helpful throughout this project. 

Salted Caramel Frappe

I think one of my favorites in this collection is the Salted Caramel Frappe! It has just a hint of coffee flavor, just enough for me, and it's topped with a generous amount of whipped topping and a caramel drizzle. This would be perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up. 

Salted Caramel Frappe

Next, I think this adorable Pumpkin Ice Cream Pie would really impress your guests at Thanksgiving! It contains pumpkin ice cream, and is adorned with vanilla bean whipped topping and chocolate leaves! This would make such an elegant dessert option for the holidays. 

Cold Stone Creamery - Pumpkin Ice Cream Pie
Cold Stone Creamery - Pumpkin Ice Cream Pie
Cold Stone Creamery - Pumpkin Ice Cream Pie

This Twisted Salted Caramel Ice Cream was also pretty great. It starts with Salted Caramel Ice Cream, and they mix in chocolate chips and pretzels. They will even top it with caramel if you ask with a smile. 

Twisted Salted Caramel Ice Cream - Cold Stone Creamery

So, the Pumpkin Pie In The Sky Ice Cream was my second favorite treat. It contains Pumpkin Ice Cream, and they mix in Graham Cracker Pie Crust, Whipped Topping, and drizzle it with Caramel! At first bite, I knew this one was a winner :) 

Cold Stone Creamery - Pumpkin Pie In The Sky

Black and Tan - A Dressy Fall Outfit

Here is a cute outfit idea for a dressy occasion! Fall cocktails with friends, date night, or even a family get-together would be great if you are wearing this outfit! Enjoy!

Dressy Fall Outfit Idea in Black and Tan

FIND THE ITEMS HERE: 

Bebe Black Leather Moto Jacket Here (or Here, pictured above).

Bebe Black Leather Moto Jacket Here (or Here, pictured above).

I created this cute outfit on Polyvore

Fall Clothing Desires

Aah, Fall! It is feeling more chilly these days, making me want to put on as many layers as I can, while still looking great! Below, I wanted to share a few layered outfits I want to aspire to! Click on any of the images to shop for these incredible items! 

Happy November! Let's Eat Squash!

We finally got all of the ingredients together to make this hearty meal last night, and it was pretty good! I even made a Flipagram for you to watch and see how pretty these turn out!

Stuffed Acorn Squash
Acorn Squash

I was so happy to find Organic Acorn Squash at Kroger! 

Acorn Squash

They're really quite pretty when you cut them open! Scoop out all of the seeds and inside bits!

Scoop out the insides, cover with oil and salt, and bake at 4000 Degrees for 40 mins. Then, prepare to make the filling!

Acorn Squash

Below, we covered the acorn squash with olive oil and salt, and baked them for 40 minutes at 400 Degrees.

Stuffed Acorn Squash

For the filling, we used about 1/2 Lb/ ground pork (but could have easily used ground beed or turkey), 1/2 a red onion, 3 stalks of celery, salt and seasonings, 1/2 C. breadcrumbs, and 1/2 C. Parmesan cheese. 

Acorn Squash

Now, cook the onions, celery, and ground beef in a little bit of olive oil, and season for extra flavor. Below, you will see the filling after the meat has browned. Photo on the left is after we added the breadcrumbs and the parmesan! Yum!

Stuffed Acorn Squash
Stuffed Acorn Squash

Now, put that filling into the squash you just took out of the oven! Bake for 20 more minutes...

Stuffed Acorn Squash

And you're ready to eat!!! YUM!!!

Stuffed Acorn Squash! YUM!!!